BURMA BULLETIN

A month-in-review of events in Burma

A L T E R N A T I V E A S E A N N E T W O R K O N B U R M A

campaigns,

advocacy

&

capacity-building

for

human

rights

&

democracy

Issue 56

August 2011

Ethnic armed groups reject the regimes offer of talks with individual regional administrations and insist on direct peace negotiations between Naypyidaw and the United Nationalities Federal Council to secure a nationwide ceasefire. As peace talks stall, armed conflict continues in Kachin, Shan, and Karen States. Tatmadaw soldiers continue to target civilians during the ongoing military offensives. The regime continues to bar international aid agencies from helping tens of thousands of IDPs in desperate need of food and medicine. Tons of rice meant as aid remains stockpiled in warehouses. The USDP-dominated Parliament rejects proposals that seek to repeal oppressive laws and MPs fail to discuss a proposal that called for a Presidential amnesty for political prisoners. The regime sentences two activists to 10 years and one year and four months in prison respectively. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi weighs in on environmental issues and steps up her political activities which include her first political trip since her release and a meeting with President Thein Sein. UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Burma Toms Ojea Quintana visits the country for the first time in 18 months and says there are still serious and ongoing human rights concerns. The regime fails to mitigate the negative impact of the strong kyat on Burmas export industry. KEY STORY

IN THIS ISSUE KEY STORY

2 Kachin State: Civilians targeted 2 Shan State: Fighting continues 3 Karen State: More desertions

INSIDE BURMA
3 4 4 4 5

Parliamentary 2 session Reshuffles and purges 8888 commemorated Daw Suu on Myitsone dam Daw Suu steps up activities

nd

HUMAN RIGHTS
6 Arbitrary imprisonment 6 Ojea Quintanas visit 7 Regime denies HR abuses

DISPLACEMENT
8 Regime blocks aid to IDPs

INTERNATIONAL
8 US concerned over rapes 8 Intl cautious optimism

ECONOMY
9 Regime tax cuts insufficient 9 OTHER BURMA NEWS 11 REPORTS
_____________________________________ Receive the Burma Bulletin monthly! email publications@altsean.org Online copies are available for download at www.altsean.org

In August, ceasefire talks between the regime and the ethnic armed groups who rejected the Border Guard Force (BGF) scheme reached a dead end. While the regime insisted on pursuing ceasefire agreements with each group individually, the ethnic armies pushed for direct negotiations between Naypyidaw and the ethnic coalition United Nationalities Federal Council (UNFC) with the aim of securing a nationwide ceasefire.1 As peace talks stalled, armed conflict continued in Kachin, Shan, and Karen States.

1 The UNFC comprises 12 ethnic groups: Chin National Front (CNF); Kachin Independence Organization (KIO); Kachin National Organization (KNO); Karen National Union (KNU); Karenni National Progressive Party (KNPP); Lahu Democratic Union (LDU); National Unity Party of Arakan (UNPA); New Mon State Party (NMSP); Palaung State Liberation Front (PSLF); PaO National Liberation Organization (PNLO); Shan State Progress Party / Shan State Army (SSPP / SSA); and Wa National Organization (WNO).

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On 18 August, the regime officially invited ethnic armed groups to peace talks with their respective regional administrations.2 The Kachin Independence Organization (KIO), the Shan State Army-North (SSA-N), the Shan State Army-South (SSA-S), the New Mon State Party (NMSP), the Karen National Union (KNU), the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA), and the Karenni National Progressive Party (KNPP) all rejected the regimes offer of talks held at the regional level. The groups maintained that they would only consider direct talks between Thein Seins administration and the UNFC.3 The demand for en bloc, national talks is a decision of the UNFCs 12 member organizations to ensure that any peace agreement or ceasefire is a sustainable one that will apply to all ethnic groups.4 Kachin State: Tatmadaw targets civilians On 1 August, a KIA delegation led by Brig Gen Gum Maw met with regime negotiators led by Kachin State Minister of Security and Border Affairs Col Than Aung for talks in Lajayang, Momauk Township.5 After the two sides failed to reach an agreement over a ceasefire,6 hostilities resumed between the KIA and the Tatmadaw. In August, KIA forces and Tatmadaw troops clashed numerous times in Momauk, Waingmaw, Hpakant, and Mansi Townships.7 Fighting between the KIA and the Tatmadaw was also reported in Northern Shan States Namtu and Kutkai Townships.8 Despite the regimes outrageous claim that the Tatmadaw launched only limited attacks and not military offensives,9 Tatmadaw troops continued to target innocent civilians: 9 August: Tatmadaw troops from LIB 37 gang-raped and killed a 39-year-old woman and her 17year-old daughter near Waingmaw.10 9 August: Tatmadaw troops set fire to the Mong Khawn monastery in Mansi Township because they suspected the monks had provided support to the KIA.11 11 August: Tatmadaw troops from IB 105 shot and killed a 15-year-old boy during military operations against KIA Battalion 12 forces near Pang Sak Village in Mansi Township.12

2 NLM (19 Aug 11) Union Government offers olive branch to national race armed groups; AP (18 Aug 11) Myanmar's government invites armed ethnic groups to peace talks; BBC (18 Aug 11) Burma calls for peace talks with armed rebel groups; Reuters (18 Aug 11) Myanmar government urges peace talks with ethnic rebels; VOA (18 Aug 11) In Burmese Ethnic Conflict, Calls for Peace Do Little to Break Standoff; DVB (19 Aug 11) Govt offers peace talks to ethnic armies 3 Mizzima News (18 Aug 11) KIO criticizes Burmese governments rejection of national cease-fire; IMNA (19 Aug 11) Ethnic Armed Groups Reject Individual Peace Talks, Prefer Tripartite Dialogue; Mizzima News (19 Aug 11) Burmese govt still exercising an ethnic divide and rule strategy; Kachin News Group (20 Aug 11) KIO rejects governments offer for peace talks; Irrawaddy (19 Aug 11) Ethnic Armies Reject Piecemeal Peace Talks; SHAN (21 Aug 11) Newsflash; IMNA (22 Aug 11) Ethnic Armed Groups Alliance Demands Unified Peace Talks; Mizzima News (22 Aug 11) UNFC calls for temporary cease-fire and dialogue; KIC (22 Aug 11) Little hope for immediate national ceasefire; Irrawaddy (24 Aug 11) DKBA Rejects Peace Talks; Kachin News Group (23 Aug 11) Burmese government rejects peace talk based on Panglong Treaty; SHAN (26 Aug 11) Naypyitaw launches peace blitz 4 Irrawaddy (31 Aug 11) UNFC Forms Peace Group for Govt. Talks; Chinland Guardian (30 Aug 11) Truce Talks with Local Govts Unacceptable: UNFC; Khonumthung News (31 Aug 11) UNFC wants peace talks with central government directly 5 Irrawaddy (01 Aug 11) KIA Holds Ceasefire Talks with Naypyidaw Delegation; Mizzima News (02 Aug 11) Nationwide cease-fire demand prevents KIO-government agreement 6 This meeting occurred before the KIO rejected further discussions at the regional level. [See above KEY STORY] 7 Kachin News Group (03 Aug 11) KIA attacks a Burmese military truck; Kachin News Group (05 Aug 11) Burmese lieutenant and soldier killed by KIA; Mizzima News (10 Aug 11) MPs letter blames Kachin troops for opening fire on a car; Kachin News Group (12 Aug 11) KIA attacks Burmese troops in Nam San Yang; Mizzima News (15 Aug 11) Fighting breaks out between government and Shan troops; Kachin News Group (15 Aug 11) Two times fighting on Myitkyina-Manmaw road; Kachin News Group (15 Aug 11) KIA ambushes Burmese army column in Hpakant jade mine; Kachin News Group (18 Aug 11) Burmese army-KIA fight at Wawang Kumbang; Kachin News Group (19 Aug 11) Seven Burmese soldiers killed in fighting with KIA; Kachin News Group (24 Aug 11) Firewood thief Burmese soldier shot dead by KIA; DVB (30 Aug 11) Burmese expanding in Kachin State; Kachin News Group (31 Aug 11) Three Burmese Army soldiers killed in Dawhpum Yang 8 Kachin News Group (15 Aug 11) Burmese troops and KIA clash at Namtu; Kachin News Group (25 Aug 11) Two Burmese soldiers killed, four injured in KIA ambush; Kachin News Group (25 Aug 11) Two Burmese soldiers killed, four injured in KIA ambush; Irrawaddy (29 Aug 11) KIA Attacks Govt Convoy; Kachin News Group (31 Aug 11) Burma Army friendly fire kills 3, injures 4 on Mandalay-Muse trade route; Kachin News Group (31 Aug 11) Seven Burma Army soldiers killed in fighting with KIA at Lungja hillside 9 NLM (13 Aug 11) Government already acceded to peace proposals of KIO to most possible degree - KIO needs to analyze itself to ascertain whether it wants genuine peace or not - KIO/KIA exploits honest and sincere local people as refugees launching propaganda campaigns internationally through help of media and trying to ask financial assistance and rations - Government showing much tolerance in striving utmost to restore peace in Kachin State 10 KWAT (16 Aug 11) Growing numbers of displaced Kachin suffer from Burmese regimes blockage of aid 11 SHAN (17 Aug 11) Newsflash 12 Kachin News Group (16 Aug 11) Innocent teenage boy shot dead by Burmese soldiers; Kachin News Group (24 Aug 11) Burma Army IB. No. 105 killed innocent boy

 20 August: Tatmadaw troops from IB 74 shelled Gawoo Village in Mansi Township, killing a sixyear-old girl.13 Shan State: Fighting continues In early August, the Tatmadaw withdrew a significant number of troops from areas surrounding the Shan State Army-North (SSA-N) headquarters in Wanhai, Kyethi Township, Northern Shan State, and from the National Democratic Alliance Armys (NDAAs) Hsoplwe base in Mongyawng Township, Eastern Shan State.14 Despite troop withdrawals, clashes between the Tatmadaw and the SSA-N continued.15 Hostilities took place mostly in Northern Shan State, with numerous clashes reported in Kyethi Township.16 Fighting was also reported in Hsipaw, Kyaukme, Mongkeung, Mantong, and Mongyai Townships.17 Civilians continued to bear the brunt of the Tatmadaws military operations: 11 August: Tatmadaw troops from LIB 325 fired mortar shells into Wansant Village in Mongyai Township, injuring at least 13 people, including three children.18 16 August: Tatmadaw troops from IB 130 in Mantong Township shot and killed a 27-year-old local villager suspected of being an SSA-N supporter.19 23 August: Tatmadaw troops burned down five houses in Wan Phwee Village, Kyethi Township, Northern Shan State, because they suspected residents were SSA-N supporters.20 Karen State: More Tatmadaw desertions In preparation for the upcoming dry season offensive against the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA), the regime deployed additional Tatmadaw troops to Karen State.21 Sporadic fighting continued to take place amid massive BGF troop defections: Early August: Ten soldiers from Hlaingbwe Township-based BGF 1014 defected to the KNLA.22 5 August: Seventy-two BGF soldiers based in Hpa-an Township defected to the KNLA.23 20 August: DKBA forces killed three Tatmadaw soldiers in an ambush on a military convoy that was escorting Karen State Chief Minister Maj Gen Zaw Min in Myawaddy Township.24 INSIDE BURMA Parliament reconvenes: New session, same old tune On 22 August, the USDP-dominated Parliament reconvened for its second session.25 The first eight days of the session were mostly a repeat of the sham parliamentary debate witnessed during the January-March session:
Mizzima News (23 Aug 11) Calling us insurgents makes political dialogue difficult: KIO DVB (01 Aug 11) Burma army partially withdraws from Shan base; Mizzima News (01 Aug 11) Half of government battalions besieging Shan headquarters pull out; SHAN (08 Aug 11) Newsflash; SHAN (02 Aug 11) Newsflash; SHAN (03 Aug 11) Burma Army withdraws from Mongla 15 SHAN (08 Aug 11) Newsflash 16 SHAN (11 Aug 11) Midnight planes drive people to shelters; Mizzima News (11 Aug 11) SSA-N and SSA-S launch joint attacks against Burmese government; SHAN (11 Aug 11) Newsflash; SHAN (12 Aug 11) Newsflash; Mizzima News (12 Aug 11) More than 30,000 Shan war refugees need humanitarian aid; SHAN (15 Aug 11) Newsflash; Mizzima News (15 Aug 11) Fighting breaks out between government and Shan troops; SHAN (24 Aug 11) Newsflash; Mizzima News (24 Aug 11) Palaung civilian shot dead on the spot by government troops; SHAN (31 Aug 11) Newsflash 17 DVB (05 Aug 11) Scorched earth threat in Shan State; SHAN (17 Aug 11) Newsflash; SHAN (27 Aug 11) Newsflash; SHAN (15 Aug 11) Army vents fury on populace; Mizzima News (15 Aug 11) Fighting breaks out between government and Shan troops; Mizzima News (24 Aug 11) Palaung civilian shot dead on the spot by government troops 18 SHAN (15 Aug 11) Army vents fury on populace; Mizzima News (15 Aug 11) Fighting breaks out between government and Shan troops 19 Mizzima News (24 Aug 11) Palaung civilian shot dead on the spot by government troops 20 SHAN (24 Aug 11) Newsflash; Mizzima News (24 Aug 11) Palaung civilian shot dead on the spot by government troops 21 Irrawaddy (17 Aug 11) More Hostilities Expected in Southern Karen State; Irrawaddy (17 Aug 11) Mae Sot Residents Receive Survival Training 22 KIC (23 Aug 11) BGF in chaos - another 80 join Karen army 23 KIC (23 Aug 11) BGF in chaos - another 80 join Karen army 24 DVB (23 Aug 11) Karen state minister ambushed
14 13

 MPs rejected proposals that sought to repeal oppressive laws that included the Emergency Act and the Contempt of Courts Act.26 MPs also failed to discuss a proposal that called for a Presidential amnesty for political prisoners.27 The regime officials answers to MPs questions provided large amounts of statistical and background information but failed to address the substantive issues raised by lawmakers. Despite being allowed to attend parliamentary proceedings, journalists complained about being closely monitored by security personnel.28 Regime officials also barred reporters from talking to representatives without first getting permission from the authorities.29 Reshuffles and purges continue Internal instability continued to characterize the regimes administration amid ongoing ministerial reshuffles and purges of high-ranking military officials. 9 August: It was reported that the regime fired Tatmadaw Auditor-General Maj Gen Kyaw Phyo following an investigation into allegations of corruption.30 10 August: The regime reassigned Minister of Industry-1 Kyaw Swa Khaing as Minister at the Presidents Office and appointed Minister of Industry-2 Soe Thein to serve concurrently as Minister of Industry-1.31 Defiance marks 8888 anniversary On 8 August, activists in Burma and abroad marked the 23rd anniversary of the countrys prodemocracy uprising.32 In Rangoon, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and several NLD leaders joined about 400 people in a commemorative ceremony at a monastery in Kyimyindine Township.33 Plainclothes security officers closely monitored the event.34 Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi reiterated her rejection of the 2008 constitution.35 Daw Suu urges reassessment of Myitsone dam On 11 August, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi urged the regime and China to reassess the 6,000-megawatt Myitsone dam project on the Irrawaddy River in Kachin State in light of safety and environmental concerns.36 In a three-page open letter titled Irrawaddy Appeal, she said: Keeping in mind the
NLM (23 Aug 11) Hluttaw representatives in action with concept of serving interest of people, Union and nation without party attachment, dogmatism, localism, racism and regionalism - First Pyithu Hluttaw second regular session begins; NLM (23 Aug 11) Second regular session of first Amyotha Hluttaw held for the first day; NLM (23 Aug 11) President U Thein Sein addresses second regular session of first Pyidaungsu 26 NLM (26 Aug 11) Fourth-day second regular session of First Pyithu Hluttaw takes place - Questioning, replying, discussing and submitting proposals; Mizzima News (25 Aug 11) NLD to work with lawyers to have their revoked licenses renewed; NLM (31 Aug 11) First Pyithu Hluttaw second regular session goes on for seventh day - Questions raised and answers, proposals and bills submitted for approval; Mizzima News (31 Aug 11) Burmese Parliament rejects motion to repeal Emergency Provisions Act; DVB (31 Aug 11) Parliament rejects reform of emergency act 27 Irrawaddy (29 Aug 11) Military Factions Join Opposition to Demand Amnesty; DVB (30 Aug 11) Prisons act reform proposal rejected by Home Minister 28 Mizzima News (25 Aug 11) Burmese Parliament sessions show small signs of improvement: MPs 29 Myanmar Times (29 Aug 11) Media transition takes another step in hluttaws 30 Irrawaddy (09 Aug 11) Another Military General Gets the Sack 31 NLM (11 Aug 11) Union Minister Reshuffled; NLM (11 Aug 11) Union Minister appointed concurrently as Union Minister for Industry-1; Bernama (11 Aug 11) Myanmar Forms Government Spokespersons, Information Team; Myanmar Times (15 Aug 11) Union govt announces reshuffle 32 Mizzima News (08 Aug 11) Opposition holds ceremonies to mark 23rd anniversary of 8888 uprising; DVB (08 Aug 11) Burmese mark anniversary of 1988 uprising; Chinland Guardian (08 Aug 11) Protests to Mark Burma's 8888 Nationwide Uprising; Chinland Guardian (08 Aug 11) Photos of Burma's 8888 Protests in London; Mizzima News (08 Aug 11) Opposition holds ceremonies to mark 23rd anniversary of 8888 uprising; Narinjara News (09 Aug 11) Demand for release of Burmese Political Prisoners; VOA (08 Aug 11) Burmese Democracy Leader Marks Uprising Anniversary; Mizzima News (08 Aug 11) Demonstrations around the world remember 8888 protests 33 AFP (08 Aug 11) Aung San Suu Kyi remembers Myanmar's 1988 uprising; VOA (08 Aug 11) Burmese Democracy Leader Marks Uprising Anniversary; NLD (10 Aug 11) Daw Aung San Suu Kyi attended four eight movement commemoration; Mizzima News (08 Aug 11) Opposition holds ceremonies to mark 23rd anniversary of 8888 uprising 34 Irrawaddy (08 Aug 11) Suu Kyi Calls for Unity on Anniversary of 88 Uprising 35 DPA (08 Aug 11) Myanmar opposition leader defies military on uprising anniversary 36 AP (11 Aug 11) Myanmar's Suu Kyi urges reassessment of dam; DPA (12 Aug 11) Myanmar opposition leader calls for reassessment of dam project; DPA (12 Aug 11) Myanmar opposition leader calls for reassessment of dam project; DPA (12 Aug
25

interests of both countries, both governments would wish to avoid consequences which might endanger lives and homes.37 Daw Suu added that the Myitsone project had resulted in the forced relocation of up to 12,000 people from 63 villages.38 By contrast, on 10 August, a commentary in the state-run newspaper New Light of Myanmar claimed that the Myitsone dam project would have no negative impact on the flow of the Irrawaddy and the livelihoods of local communities. It also claimed that only 2,146 people from five villages had relocated as a result of the project.39 Daw Suu steps up political activities In August, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi stepped up her political activities which included several firsts: her first political trip since the Depayin massacre and her first meeting with President Thein Sein and later with the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Burma Toms Ojea Quintana. 12 August: Daw Aung San Suu Kyi met with regime Labor Minister Aung Kyi at the Seinle Kantha state guesthouse in Rangoon.40 It was Daw Suus eleventh meeting with Aung Kyi, and the second meeting since Thein Seins regime took office. In a joint press statement issued after the meeting, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and Aung Kyi stressed the need to cooperate and avoid conflicts.41 14 August: Daw Aung San Suu Kyi went on a day trip to Pegu and Thanatbin, Pegu Division, to inaugurate two libraries and make donations to flood victims.42 Like her July trip to Pagan [See July 2011 Burma Bulletin], Daw Suu drew large crowds despite being closely monitored by the regimes security agents.43 In Pegu, where 2,000 people turned up to greet her, she told supporters that it was too early to comment on signs of a political thaw with the regime.44 In Thanatbin, in a speech to about 600 supporters, she urged pro-democracy activists to remain united and to support the NLD.45 19 August: Daw Aung San Suu Kyi met with President Thein Sein in Naypyidaw.46 The next day, she told reporters she was happy and satisfied with the meeting.47

11) Myanmar's new government vows not to harm the Irrawaddy; NLD (11 Aug 11) Irrawaddy Appeal; Mizzima News (11 Aug 11) Suu Kyi releases statement on dams in ethnic areas, pressuring gov't; DVB (12 Aug 11) Suu Kyi demands action on major dam; Guardian (12 Aug 11) Aung San Suu Kyi: China's dam project in Burma is dangerous and divisive; WSJ (15 Aug 11) Myanmar's Suu Kyi Tests Limits With Trip 37 DPA (12 Aug 11) Myanmar opposition leader calls for reassessment of dam project; NLD (11 Aug 11) Irrawaddy Appeal 38 DPA (12 Aug 11) Myanmar opposition leader calls for reassessment of dam project; AP (11 Aug 11) Myanmar's Suu Kyi urges reassessment of dam; NLD (11 Aug 11) Irrawaddy Appeal 39 AP (11 Aug 11) Myanmar's Suu Kyi urges reassessment of dam; NLM (10 Aug 11) We also love river Ayeyawady; Irrawaddy (11 Aug 11) Suu Kyi Appeals for Megadam Review 40 Reuters (12 Aug 11) Myanmar minister, Suu Kyi agree to cooperate; NLM (13 Aug 11) Press Release out after discussion between Union Minister U Aung Kyi and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi; NLD (12 Aug 11) NLD General Secretary Daw Aung San Suu Kyi met Minister U Aung Kyi for second time; Myanmar Times (15 Aug 11) Suu Kyi, govt commit to talks; Mizzima News (12 Aug 11) Suu Kyi, Burmese govt agree to work together to avoid conflicting views 41 NLM (13 Aug 11) Press Release out after discussion between Union Minister U Aung Kyi and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi; Reuters (12 Aug 11) Myanmar minister, Suu Kyi agree to cooperate; DPA (12 Aug 11) Myanmar government and opposition leader Suu Kyi to "avoid conflict"; BBC (12 Aug 11) Burma government offers Suu Kyi's NLD 'reconciliation'; Myanmar Times (15 Aug 11) Suu Kyi, govt commit to talks; Mizzima News (12 Aug 11) Suu Kyi, Burmese govt agree to work together to avoid conflicting views 42 BBC (14 Aug 11) Aung San Suu Kyi in first political trip beyond Rangoon; AP (14 Aug 11) Cheers as Myanmar's Suu Kyi tests new freedom with 1st political trip to countryside; WSJ (15 Aug 11) Myanmar's Suu Kyi Tests Limits With Trip; NLD (15 Aug 11) Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's trip successful: People hailed her at Thanatpin and Bago; IHT (14 Aug 11) Myanmar Dissident Daw Aung San Suu Kyi Visits Flood Victims; VOA (15 Aug 11) Burmese Dissident Leader Draws Crowds Outside Rangoon; Myanmar Times (22 Aug 11) Daw Aung San Suu Kyi tours Bago; CNN (15 Aug 11) Suu Kyi makes first political trip outside main city; Mizzima News (14 Aug 11) Suu Kyis visit to Pegu probes limits of political space 43 AP (13 Aug 11) Myanmar pro-democracy icon Suu Kyi makes 1st political trip since release from house arrest; WSJ (15 Aug 11) Myanmar's Suu Kyi Tests Limits With Trip 44 AFP (14 Aug 11) Suu Kyi cheered by thousands in Bago; Reuters (14 Aug 11) Myanmar's Suu Kyi guarded on signs of political thaw 45 AFP (14 Aug 11) Suu Kyi cheered by thousands in Bago; BBC (14 Aug 11) Aung San Suu Kyi in first political trip beyond Rangoon; WSJ (15 Aug 11) Myanmar's Suu Kyi Tests Limits With Trip; VOA (14 Aug 11) Aung San Suu Kyi Calls for Unity on First Political Trip 46 NLM (20 Aug 11) President U Thein Sein, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi vow to cooperate for national interest; DPA (19 Aug 11) Myanmar opposition leader meets new president; AFP (19 Aug 11) Myanmar's Suu Kyi meets president for first time; Reuters (19 Aug 11) Aung San Suu Kyi meets Burma's president Thein Sein; Xinhua (19 Aug 11) Myanmar president meets Aung San Suu Kyi for first time; Irrawaddy (19 Aug 11) Suu Kyi, Thein Sein Meet for First Time; Mizzima News (19 Aug 11) Burmas president meets opposition leader Suu Kyi 47 AP (20 Aug 11) Myanmars Suu Kyi says she is happy after her meeting with president; Irrawaddy (20 Aug 11) Suu Kyi 'Satisfied' with Thein Sein Talks

 24 August: Daw Aung San Suu Kyi met UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Burma Toms Ojea Quintana at her home in Rangoon. After the meeting, Daw Suu said she was satisfied and encouraged.48 HUMAN RIGHTS Arbitrary imprisonment continues Despite efforts to present itself as a legitimate and reform-oriented administration, the regimes repressive nature revealed itself once again with the arbitrary imprisonment of two activists in August. 26 August: Rangoon Northern District Court sentenced Nay Myo Zin, a volunteer with an NLDsponsored blood donation group, to 10 years in prison under the Electronics Act. The regime accused him of sending articles critical of the regime to Burmese exiled media.49 26 August: It was reported that a court in Meikhtila Township, Mandalay Division, sentenced NLD member Aung Hla Myint aka Pho Htaung to 16 months in prison under the Immigration Act. The regime accused him of traveling from Tatkon to Meikhtila to attend a Martyrs Day ceremony without first requesting permission from the authorities.50 [See July 2011 Burma Bulletin] The ongoing imprisonment of political activists exposed President Seins 17 August disingenuous offer to Burmese exiles. During a meeting with representatives from economic and social fields in Naypyidaw, Thein Sein said that Burmese citizens living abroad could return home if they had not committed any crimes. Thein Sein added that the regime would however show a benevolent attitude towards those exiles who decided to return home despite having committed crimes.51 UN on human rights: Serious issues remain On 21 August, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Burma Toms Ojea Quintana began a five-day official visit to the country.52 It was Ojea Quintanas first visit to Burma since February 2010. In Naypyidaw, Ojea Quintana met with various regime ministers and officials.53 On 23 August, he observed parliamentary proceedings and met with the Speakers of both Houses of the Parliament and various MPs.54

AP (24 Aug 11) Myanmar's Suu Kyi calls UN envoy visit encouraging; VOA (24 Aug 11) UN Envoy Meets Burmese Political Prisoners, Aung San Suu Kyi; AFP (24 Aug 11) Suu Kyi says Myanmar president wants "real change"; DVB (25 Aug 11) Suu Kyi encouraged by Quintana meet; OHCHR (25 Aug 11) Statement of the Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar 49 AP (30 Aug 11) Myanmar sentences ex-army captain to 10 years for sending information to dissident groups; AFP (30 Aug 11) Myanmar jails man for 10 years for web article; Irrawaddy (26 Aug 11) Nay Myo Zin Sentenced to 10 Years; Mizzima News (27 Aug 11) Former military officer sentenced to 10 years in prison under Electronics Act; DVB (29 Aug 11) Ex-army captain sentenced to 10 years 50 Irrawaddy (26 Aug 11) Nay Myo Zin Sentenced to 10 Years 51 NLM (18 Aug 11) Individuals and organizations in the nation that have different views from the government should not take account of disagreements - Work with us for common goals in the national interests - Killings, bomb attacks, kidnapping and collection of extortion money are completely unacceptable to civilized world - Myanmar will be developed soon if people are united and work hard together, making good use of favourable conditions; DPA (18 Aug 11) Myanmar's new president invites non-criminal emigres to return 52 AFP (21 Aug 11) UN envoy enters Myanmar for first time in more than a year; DPA (21 Aug 11) UN human rights envoy in Myanmar to assess new government 53 NLM (26 Aug 11) Separate talks between Human Rights Special Rapporteur Mr Thomas Ojea Quintana and Pyithu Hluttaw Speaker Thura U Shwe Mann, Amyotha Hluttaw Speaker U Khin Aung Myint, Union Chief Justice U Tun Tun Oo, Union Election Commission Chairman U Tin Aye, Union Minister for Home Affairs Lt-Gen Ko Ko, Union Minister for Defence Maj-Gen Hla Min, Union Minister for Foreign Affairs U Wunna Maung Lwin, Union Minister for Labour and for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement U Aung Kyi, Union Attorney-General Dr Tun Shin and Deputy Chief of the Myanmar Police Force Police Brig-Gen Zaw Win 54 NLM (24 Aug 11) Amyotha Hluttaw Speaker receives Human Rights Special Rapporteur; NLM (24 Aug 11) Hluttaw representatives of Pyithu Hluttaw and Amyotha Hluttaw meet Human Rights Special Rapporteur; NLM (24 Aug 11) Pyithu Hluttaw Speaker receives Human Rights Special Rapporteur Mr Thomas Ojea Quintana and party; OHCHR (25 Aug 11) Statement of the Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar; Myanmar Times (29 Aug 11) Quintana meets parliamentarians, speakers

48

In Rangoon, on 24 August, Ojea Quintana had a very important, fruitful and productive meeting with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi.55 He also met with NLD CEC members and discussed the possibility of a Commission of Inquiry on serious international crimes in Burma.56 Ojea Quintana also visited Insein prison where he spoke with seven political prisoners.57 On 25 August, at a press conference in Rangoon, the Special Rapporteur said that serious human rights issues remained.58 In particular, Ojea Quintana expressed concern over:59 Human rights violations committed in ethnic areas, including attacks against civilians, extrajudicial killings, sexual violence, arbitrary arrest and detention, internal displacement, land confiscation, the recruitment of child soldiers, as well as forced labor and portering. The ongoing detention of a large number of political prisoners. Poor detention conditions which included torture, ill-treatment, inadequate medical care, and the transfer of prisoners to jails located in remote areas. The lack of independence and impartiality of the judiciary and the existence of laws that contravened international human rights standards. The negative impact of infrastructure projects, including land confiscations and forced displacement. Ojea Quintana reiterated his call for the regime to release all political prisoners as a central and necessary step towards national reconciliation.60 He also urged the regime to investigate human rights violations in an independent, impartial and credible manner.61 Regime on human rights: Total denial Several outrageous statements made by regime officials at a 12 August press conference in Naypyidaw and during meetings with Ojea Quintana between 21-23 August illustrated the regimes utter contempt and disregard for human rights:62 [In Burma] there is no prisoner serving a term for his belief. - Chief Justice Tun Tun Oo There has been no forced recruitment since the Tatmadaw was established. - Defense Minister Maj Gen Hla Min [Burma] is almost free from forced labor. - Information Minister Kyaw Hsan
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AP (24 Aug 11) Myanmar's Suu Kyi calls UN envoy visit encouraging; VOA (24 Aug 11) UN Envoy Meets Burmese Political Prisoners, Aung San Suu Kyi; AFP (24 Aug 11) Suu Kyi says Myanmar president wants "real change"; Irrawaddy (24 Aug 11) UN Envoy Meets Suu Kyi, Visits Insein Prison; NLM (25 Aug 11) Human Rights Special Rapporteur Mr Tomas Ojea Quintana observes Insein Jail; OHCHR (25 Aug 11) Statement of the Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar; DVB (25 Aug 11) Suu Kyi encouraged by Quintana meet 56 VOA (24 Aug 11) UN Envoy Meets Burmese Political Prisoners, Aung San Suu Kyi; Irrawaddy (24 Aug 11) UN Envoy Meets Suu Kyi, Visits Insein Prison; DVB (25 Aug 11) Suu Kyi encouraged by Quintana meet 57 VOA (24 Aug 11) UN Envoy Meets Burmese Political Prisoners, Aung San Suu Kyi; Irrawaddy (24 Aug 11) UN Envoy Meets Suu Kyi, Visits Insein Prison; NLM (25 Aug 11) Human Rights Special Rapporteur Mr Tomas Ojea Quintana observes Insein Jail; OHCHR (25 Aug 11) Statement of the Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar DVB (25 Aug 11) Suu Kyi encouraged by Quintana meet 58 OHCHR (25 Aug 11) Statement of the Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar; UN News Center (25 Aug 11) Myanmar needs to do more to improve human rights situation, says UN expert; DPA (25 Aug 11) Myanmar human rights deficits remain, UN envoy says 59 OHCHR (25 Aug 11) Statement of the Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar 60 OHCHR (25 Aug 11) Statement of the Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar; UN News Center (25 Aug 11) Myanmar needs to do more to improve human rights situation, says UN expert; AP (25 Aug 11) UN envoy calls on Myanmar to release prisoners; AFP (25 Aug 11) UN envoy urges Myanmar to probe rights abuses; Reuters (25 Aug 11) UN sleuth tells Myanmar to free political prisoners 61 OHCHR (25 Aug 11) Statement of the Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar; UN News Center (25 Aug 11) Myanmar needs to do more to improve human rights situation, says UN expert; AP (25 Aug 11) UN envoy calls on Myanmar to release prisoners 62 NLM (13 Aug 11) Government already acceded to peace proposals of KIO to most possible degree - KIO needs to analyze itself to ascertain whether it wants genuine peace or not - KIO/KIA exploits honest and sincere local people as refugees launching propaganda campaigns internationally through help of media and trying to ask financial assistance and rations - Government showing much tolerance in striving utmost to restore peace in Kachin State; NLM (26 Aug 11) Separate talks between Human Rights Special Rapporteur Mr Thomas Ojea Quintana and Pyithu Hluttaw Speaker Thura U Shwe Mann, Amyotha Hluttaw Speaker U Khin Aung Myint, Union Chief Justice U Tun Tun Oo, Union Election Commission Chairman U Tin Aye, Union Minister for Home Affairs Lt-Gen Ko Ko, Union Minister for Defence Maj-Gen Hla Min, Union Minister for Foreign Affairs U Wunna Maung Lwin, Union Minister for Labour and for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement U Aung Kyi, Union Attorney-General Dr Tun Shin and Deputy Chief of the Myanmar Police Force Police Brig-Gen Zaw Win

 Rape accusations were used by opposite groups and insurgents as a tool to tarnish the image of and to defame the Tatmadaw. - Defense Minister Maj Gen Hla Min Regarding use of land mines, it was insurgents who used land mines and they used land mines as a tactic since they had no strength to face the Tatmadaw. - Defense Minister Maj Gen Hla Min DISPLACEMENT Regime blocks aid to IDPs Since breaking the ceasefire in Shan and Kachin States in March and June respectively, Tatmadaw military offensives have resulted in the displacement of over 30,000 people in Northern Shan State and 20,000 in Southeastern Kachin State.63 On 3 August, representatives from five ethnic political parties called on the regime to provide aid to IDPs and affected communities.64 Their calls went unheeded, as the regime continued to deny international aid agencies access to conflict areas.65 On 12 August, Information Minister Kyaw Hsan downplayed the number of IDPs in Kachin State, claiming that there were only 4,000 IDPs in Laiza and that 70% of them were associated with the KIO and the KIA. He also claimed that regime officials had opened centers to assist the displaced.66 In fact, the displaced were mainly sheltering in churches where local communities struggled to provide support.67 Despite the growing food insecurity, thousands of sacks of rice stockpiled in the WFPs storehouse in Myitkyina had not been distributed to IDP camps because the regime had expressly forbidden international and local NGO involvement in the relief effort.68 INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS US concerned over Tatmadaw rapes On 10 August, 13 female US senators from both the Republican and Democratic parties accused the regime of using rape as a weapon of war and urged Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to pressure the regime to halt the practice and to pursue the establishment of an international Commission of Inquiry into crimes against humanity and war crimes in Burma.69 In response to the lawmakers initiative, State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said that the US had repeatedly raised its concerns to the regime over violence in border regions, including rape and forced labor.70 Intl community cautiously optimistic on Daw Suu-Thein Sein meeting Cautious optimism characterized the international communitys response to the 19 August meeting between Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and President Thein Sein.
AP (10 Aug 11) Myanmar fighting displaces 30,000 people this year; Mizzima News (12 Aug 11) More than 30,000 Shan war refugees need humanitarian aid; Chinland Guardian (10 Aug 11) Over 30,000 Villagers Face Humanitarian Crisis in Shan State; DVB (08 Aug 11) Burma govt neglecting Kachin refugees; KWAT (16 Aug 11) Growing numbers of displaced Kachin suffer from Burmese regimes blockage of aid 64 Mizzima News (04 Aug 11) Ethnic parties urge Burmese government to form peace committee; Chinland Guardian (04 Aug 11) Establish 'Peace Committee': Ethnic Parties; SHAN (04 Aug 11) Shan party: Time for all to smoke peace pipe; Irrawaddy (04 Aug 11) Ethnic Parties Call for Aid to Refugees 65 AP (10 Aug 11) Myanmar fighting displaces 30,000 people this year; Mizzima News (12 Aug 11) More than 30,000 Shan war refugees need humanitarian aid; Chinland Guardian (10 Aug 11) Over 30,000 Villagers Face Humanitarian Crisis in Shan State; DVB (08 Aug 11) Burma govt neglecting Kachin refugees 66 NLM (13 Aug 11) Government already acceded to peace proposals of KIO to most possible degree - KIO needs to analyze itself to ascertain whether it wants genuine peace or not - KIO/KIA exploits honest and sincere local people as refugees launching propaganda campaigns internationally through help of media and trying to ask financial assistance and rations - Government showing much tolerance in striving utmost to restore peace in Kachin State 67 Irrawaddy (18 Aug 11) Kachin Refugees Face Food Shortages 68 KWAT (16 Aug 11) Growing numbers of displaced Kachin suffer from Burmese regimes blockage of aid; DVB (08 Aug 11) Burma govt neglecting Kachin refugees; Irrawaddy (18 Aug 11) Kachin Refugees Face Food Shortages 69 AFP (10 Aug 11) Women U.S. senators press Clinton on Myanmar rapes; Mizzima News (11 Aug 11) US women senators condemn rape as weapon of war in Burma; Irrawaddy (11 Aug 11) Clinton Urged to Push for End of Use of Rape as a Weapon in Burma 70 AFP (12 Aug 11) Myanmar regime urged to stop "rapes"; AP (13 Aug 11) US seeks commission of inquiry in Myanmar
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 19 August: US State Department spokesman Mark Toner called the meeting a positive step but added that concrete action had to follow the rhetoric.71 20 August: EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton said the meeting was a positive step towards reconciliation in the country. She added that the EU hoped the meeting would bear fruit in the long term.72 22 August: UN Sec-Gen Ban Ki-moon said he was encouraged by the meeting. He also reiterated the call for the release of political prisoners as a matter of priority.73 ECONOMY Regime tax cuts insufficient The strengthening of the kyat against the US dollar continued to negatively impact Burmas struggling export industry. On 22 August, the dollar fell to a 10-year low of 680 kyat on the black market.74 In response, the regime introduced a series of temporary measures: 15 August: The regime cut taxes on export revenue from 7% to 2% and granted tax exemptions to seven export items for six months.75 18 August: The regime cut tax on the income of foreign currency earners from 10% to 2% for six months.76 Businessmen and economists criticized the measures as insufficient in light of the need to genuinely reform the economy.77 On 19 August, Macquarie University Economics Professor Sean Turnell warned that tax reductions would not be sufficient to compensate for foreign exchange losses.78 OTHER BURMA NEWS IN AUGUST
1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 3 3 3 President Thein Sein accepts the resignation of Shan State Minister for Planning and Economy Thaung Shwe. Indias state-owned company NHPC announces plans to develop two hydropower projects in Burma. State-owned Inland Water Transport raises fares on all its boat services. Ethnic Nationalities Council welcomes Daw Aung San Suu Kyis involvement and urges the regime to pursue a nationwide ceasefire and political dialogue with all pro-democracy forces. Regime authorities and UMEH officials in Dedaye and Kyaiklat Townships, Irrawaddy Division, detain about 100 local farmers to force them to repay agricultural loans. Associated Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia Executive Adviser Soong Siew Hoong suggests that Malaysian businessmen should relocate operations to Burma. Bangladesh-Burma Business Promotion Council Chairman Syed Mahmudul Huq says trade between Burma and Bangladesh is expected to increase to US$500 million from US$160 million. US Senate confirms Derek Mitchells appointment as US Special Envoy to Burma. People Democracy Party applies for party registration with the regimes Election Commission. Representatives from five ethnic political parties call for a nationwide ceasefire and urge the regime to form a Peace Committee tasked with finding a political solution to the ongoing conflict in ethnic areas. Rangoons Mingala Taungnyunt Township Court rejects an appeal by political prisoner Sithu Zeya against his conviction to eight years in prison under the Immigration Act and Unlawful Association Act.

AP (19 Aug 11) Dissident Meets Leader of Myanmar DPA (20 Aug 11) EU foreign policy chief welcomes Myanmar reconciliation meeting; DPA (20 Aug 11) EU's Ashton gives cautious welcome to Suu Kyi Myanmar talks 73 UN News Center (22 Aug 11) Ban welcomes talks between Myanmars President and opposition leader; AFP (24 Aug 11) UN chief hails Myanmar, Suu Kyi talks; AFP (23 Aug 11) UN chief urges Myanmar to step up reforms 74 Mizzima News (23 Aug 11) US dollar price in Burma falls to 10-year low 75 Reuters (15 Aug 11) Myanmar cuts export tax to help offset currency strength; Myanmar Times (15 Aug 11) Export taxes tipped to fall; NLM (16 Aug 11) Seven export items granted tax exemption; DPA (16 Aug 11) Myanmar exempts rice from export tax; Irrawaddy (16 Aug 11) Key Burmese Industries Granted Six-Month Export Tax Exemption 76 NLM (19 Aug 11) Ministry of Finance and Revenue - Notification No. 156/2011; NLM (19 Aug 11) Ministry of Finance and Revenue - Notification No. 157/2011; Mizzima News (16 Aug 11) Exporters to pay 2 percent profit tax; no export tax 77 Myanmar Times (15 Aug 11) Export taxes tipped to fall 78 Myanmar Times (22 Aug 11) Finance Ministry widens tax cuts
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Chin Progressive Party says Chin State is losing a significant source of income because the regime is allowing other States and Divisions to generate income from its forests natural resources. Kachin students distribute over 1,600 anti-regime posters in Myitkyina, Kachin State. A court in Mergui Township, Tenasserim Division, sentences local NLD Chairman Soe Lwin to four months in prison in connection with a 26 July fight with two youths. United Nationalities Federal Council expresses its support for Daw Aung San Suu Kyis 28 July open letter that called for a political solution to the ongoing conflict in ethnic areas. US Congresswoman Laura Richardson says further reform in Burma is needed before the US can lift sanctions. Thai Navy officials seize illegal processed wood planks from Burma worth 300,000 baht (US$10,000) from a boat off Ranong in Southern Thailand. 88 Generation Students issue a statement that urges the regime to release all political prisoners and negotiate a ceasefire agreement with ethnic armed groups. Twenty-three pro-regime MPs including nine USDP lawmakers release an open letter that says that President Thein Sein left no stone unturned" in his endeavor to restore peace through negotiations with ethnic leaders. IMF spokeswoman Gita Bhatt says that IMF officials will travel to Burma in the second half of October to help unify its foreign exchange system and lift restrictions on international transactions. ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Myanmar Caucus expresses strong opposition to the nomination of Burma to chair ASEAN in 2014 in light of the regimes poor human rights record. Thai Navy arrest 55 Burmese undocumented migrants in the Andaman Sea near Ranong, Thailand. US State Department spokesperson Victoria Nuland says the regime will have to abide by IMF conditions if it expects to receive any assistance from the global financial organization. North Korean trade officials meet regime counterparts in Rangoon to discuss a possible deal to import Burmese rice to ease major food shortages in North Korea. Regime introduces legislation that bans vendors from selling on pavements in six Rangoon wards without the required documentation. Burmas Supreme Court revokes the license of Tin Tun Aung, a lawyer with the NLD-sponsored Lawyers Network, because he helped farmers in Magwe Division to lodge complaints against land confiscation. Democratic Alliance Party applies to the regimes Election Commission for the formation of a political party. President Thein Sein appoints 11 regime officials to be members of the Spokespersons and Information Team. At a press conference in Naypyidaw, regime Information Minister Kyaw Hsan invites the NLD to become a legal political party by re-registering with the Election Commission. Regimes Information Minister Kyaw Hsan announces that the regime may withdraw Foreign Exchange Certificates. Lithuanian FM Audronius Aubalis expresses his support to Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and says his country will continue to raise the issue of Burma in bilateral and international forums. Regime FM Wunna Maung Lwin meets ILO Liaison Officer to Burma Steve Marshall in Naypyidaw. Rakhine in Burma and abroad commemorate the 44th anniversary of the Day of the Rice Massacre with ceremonies. Human Rights Foundation of Monland releases a report, titled Burmas Navy Attacks Civilians Livelihood, which says that since December 2010 the regimes Navy Unit 43 confiscated about 4,000 acres of land on Kywe Thone Nyi Ma Island in Yebyu Township, Tenasserim Division. Tatmadaw soldiers from IB 143 forcibly recruit 11 children in Kyethi Township, Shan State. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi meets with female representatives from Taiwans Democratic Progressive Party in Rangoon. Thai Navy arrest 63 Burmese undocumented migrants on a boat near Ranong, Thailand. Regimes Agriculture and Irrigation Minister Myint Hlaing meets Vietnamese Agriculture and Rural Development Deputy Minister Ho Xuan Hung in Naypyidaw. A US Senate Foreign Affairs Committee delegation meets with members of five political parties that participated in the 2010 elections in Rangoon to discuss Burmas current political and economic situation. State-run newspapers drop anti-Western media banners that have appeared daily since the Saffron Revolution. Eight ethnic political parties that contested the 1990 elections send a letter to UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Burma Toms Ojea Quintana to call for a UN investigation into the regimes ongoing human rights abuses in ethnic areas. In a speech to the National Parliament, President Thein Sein says the regime is trying to ease the tension with political groups who still do not accept the 2008 constitution and to hold peace talks with ethnic

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armed groups. Regimes Election Commission authorizes the formation of the New National Democracy Party. Pro-democracy activist Aung Pe demonstrates in Twante Township, Rangoon Division, to demand the release of political prisoners in Burma. Malaysia starts registering thousands of refugees who hold UNHCR registration cards in Kuala Lumpur as part of their migrant amnesty program. A delegation led by Indian Navy Chief Admiral Nirmal Verma arrives in Rangoon on a four-day visit to Burma. US State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland says that the US will be talking to the regime about how quickly the new US Special Envoy to Burma Derek Mitchell would be able to travel to the country. Bangladeshi Foreign Affairs Secretary Mohamed Mijarul Quayes arrives in Rangoon for a three-day visit to Burma. Regimes Election Commission authorizes the formation of the Democratic Alliance Party. Regimes Ministry of Foreign Affairs issues a statement that dismisses allegations of human rights abuses committed by Tatmadaw soldiers as groundless and far from the truth. Regimes Minister of Rail Transportation Aung Min says that construction on the railroad linking the Sino-Burma border town of Muse, Shan State, to Kyaukpyu in Arakan State could begin as early as December. Lawyer Poe Phyu delivers a letter to the Presidents Office in Naypyidaw to urge action on land confiscation that affected seven villages in Rangoon Division. ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Myanmar Caucus releases a statement that urges EU member to call for a Commission of Inquiry on war crimes and crimes against humanity in Burma at the upcoming UN General Assembly session.

REPORTS ON BURMA RELEASED IN AUGUST

The Role of Students in the 8888 People's Uprising in Burma, Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) http://bit.ly/pgBU95 Burmas Navy Attacks on Civilians Livelihood, Human Rights Foundation of Monland (HURFOM) http://bit.ly/oweP0x

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